Heather Z. Reynosa
Partner
York
Criminal Defense Attorney in York, PA
When looking for criminal lawyers in York, PA, choose MPL Law. We listen to your story, build trust through honest communication, create strategies tailored to your situation and develop a path forward addressing both courtroom outcomes and real-world consequences.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense Services
Every case involves different circumstances, evidence and legal considerations. We provide honest guidance and dedicated representation at each stage. As your criminal attorney in York, PA, we focus on various charges, including but not limited to:
DUI
Pennsylvania uses a tiered Driving Under the Influence (DUI) system based on blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Each tier carries escalating penalties for convictions, from probation and fines at the general impairment level for a first offense, up to mandatory minimum jail time, fines and extended license suspension at the highest tier. Drug-impaired driving, including prescription medications, also falls under the same statute.
Our lawyers examine every aspect of your case, from the legality of the traffic stop and the accuracy of breath or blood testing equipment to the chain of custody for blood samples and the manner in which field sobriety tests were administered. We also explore Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) eligibility, a program that could allow first-time, nonviolent DUI offenders to avoid a conviction and have the charge expunged upon completion.
Drug Charges
Common charges include simple possession, possession with intent to deliver (PWID) and drug paraphernalia possession. The severity of a conviction depends on the schedule of the substance, the quantity and whether distribution is alleged. A conviction for a first-time simple possession charge may result in probation, fines, a driver’s license suspension and a permanent criminal record. PWID is a felony and carries the potential for significant prison time.
Our defense of someone charged with a drug-related offense often challenges the legality of the search and seizure, questioning whether the evidence supports an intent to distribute versus personal use and negotiating for treatment-based alternatives where applicable. Pennsylvania’s drug diversion programs may also be available for certain first-time offenders.
Assault and Robbery
Pennsylvania distinguishes between simple assault (a misdemeanor) and aggravated assault (a felony), with aggravated assault involving serious bodily injury, use of a weapon or assault against a protected class of victim like a police officer or school employee. Robbery under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3701 is a felony. It becomes a first-degree felony when a firearm is involved or when the victim suffers serious bodily injury. A felony conviction in Pennsylvania could result in years in state prison, heavy fines and a permanent record that bars someone from owning a firearm, working in certain industries or obtaining professional licenses.
Burglary — breaking into a structure with the intent to commit a crime inside — is sometimes grouped with these charges and is also a felony under Pennsylvania law.
Defense strategies for these charges can include self-defense or defense of others, challenging eyewitness identification, disputing intent and examining the physical evidence and any surveillance footage.
Sex Crimes
Sex crime charges in Pennsylvania cover a wide range of charges, including sexual assault, rape, indecent assault, statutory sexual assault, sexual abuse of children and others under 18 Pa.C.S. Chapter 31. Many of these charges are felony offenses. Sex crime charges are unique due to the collateral consequence of registration under Pennsylvania’s Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), sometimes called Megan’s Law.
Our defense strategy in sex crime cases often involves scrutinizing the credibility and consistency of the accuser’s account, challenging forensic evidence, examining whether consent was present and protecting your privacy interests throughout proceedings. MPL Law emphasizes nonjudgmental representation.
Why Trust MPL Law for Criminal Defense in York County
MPL Law has built a reputation for client-focused representation. We learn the unique needs of each situation according to what you want to achieve, developing a close relationship and working together. This approach allows our attorneys to find the path that delivers results aligned with your priorities.
As your criminal defense lawyer in York, PA, we help you set realistic expectations while pursuing optimistic outcomes. Using our knowledge of local courts and prosecutors, we seek an outcome that will be best for you both inside and outside of the courtroom.
Beyond criminal defense, MPL Law also focuses on other practice areas such as estates and trusts, real estate law, business and commercial law, civil litigation, family law, municipal law and energy and infrastructure. This forward-thinking representation allows us to assist you as your legal needs shift.
Let Us Help You Defend Your Case
If you are facing charges in York County, the criminal defense attorneys at MPL Law can help. Contact us today to discuss your options.
